What happens when one of Sydney’s leading catering companies, Cook & Waiter, joins forces with venue partner ACO On The Pier? Think of it as a symphony for the senses, which is what unfolded at an intimate evening of food, drinks and performance that we co-hosted at the mesmerising home of the Australian Chamber Orchestra.
As panel caterers for the venue, we’ve hosted many memorable events at this striking harbourfront event space in Sydney, perched on the beautifully restored, heritage-listed timber wharves of Walsh Bay. It’s unquestionably among the best event spaces Sydney has to offer.
From its charming, converted warehouse bones to stunning harbour backdrop and top-tier sound and lighting, it sets the perfect stage for luxury event catering in Sydney.
The culinary ensemble at this particular evening event has received requests for an encore ever since. The first movement starred a lavish grazing table – French cheeses, saucisson, French-style country terrine, duck pate, chicken liver parfait, and an assortment of house-baked soft bread rolls, crusty baguettes and cushiony focaccia.
For the grand finale, we dialled up the ooh-la-la with a decadent chocolate fondant station: Valrhona self-saucing fondants accompanied with vanilla triple bean ice cream, chocolate shavings, salted caramel, butterscotch, poached quince and zingy lemon curd. We’re told guests have been raving about it ever since.
Just as a renowned orchestra thrives on every player’s part, catering in such a standout venue demands seamless teamwork. Each of our thoughtfully choreographed menus echoes ACO On The Pier’s elegance, energy, and attention to craft.
We sat down with the ACO team for a deep dive on what makes their space so magnetic, and why events here stay with guests long after the curtain falls.
ACO On The Pier is such a striking event space — how would you describe its character and what makes it a uniquely Sydney event venue?
“Located in Sydney’s Walsh Bay Arts Precinct, our orchestral home is a beautiful 1920s Warehouse turned theatre. Our harbourside location makes events at ACO On The Pier extra special. Throughout the building, glass paneling offers views of the water and Sydney Harbour Bridge, placing every event in the heart of one of Australia’s most iconic locations.”
The venue feels both refined and grounded in creativity. How do you see people using the space – what kinds of events or experiences come to life here?
“Every space has been purpose-built to integrate world-class technical facilities with thoughtful design, capable of producing sophisticated and impactful events. There is never a dull day at ACO On The Pier – our events oscillate between orchestral performances, ACO Families theatre shows, corporate and private events. ”
The ACO is synonymous with artistry and performance. How does that same spirit influence the way events are experienced here?
“Music is in the DNA of our building. Throughout the spaces you can find a treasure hunt of architectural Easter eggs – such as the braille pattern on the walls of our theatre; a poetic verse about the majesty of music, by Beethoven – which evokes a sense of timeless wonder and the thrill of discovery in every experience.”
Cook & Waiter is proud to be one of your catering partners. What do you look for in collaborators, and what stands out to you about the way our teams work together?
“We are proud to work with Cook & Waiter to deliver our clients the highest standard in catering which marries perfectly with the quality of service we pride ourselves in.”
Is there a favourite event we’ve worked on together that stands out to you – something that perfectly captured the ACO x Cook & Waiter experience?
“A highlight last year was our own venue’s showcase where we opened our doors to event and corporate clients to show them our spaces in full flight, including a performance by our incredible orchestra. Cook & Waiter set up an exquisite grazing table that had our guests raving – something people still talk about!”
Finally, in your eyes, what makes an event at ACO truly unforgettable?
“Our location, our history, the quality of our gorgeous venue and exceptional guest experiences. The doors of possibility are always open at ACO On The Pier, and everyone is invited to share the magic of this extraordinary space.”
Looking to host your next event at ACO On The Pier? Cook & Waiter is proud to be a trusted panel caterer – get in touch to start planning.
